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The Climate Action Plan 2019 targets the low-energy retrofit of 500,000 existing Irish homes before 2030.1 Up to 80 per cent of building failures can be attributed to moisture risks.2 The literature indicated that external wall insulation (EWI, ETICS) failures are mostly due to moisture ingress at junctions and interfaces. A hygrothermal risk assessment of EWI on three walls with rendered concrete/concrete blockwork/cavity walls in Dublin, Belfast and Belmullet was undertaken using transient numerical simulation and the Glaser method. The guidance, common practice indicates a preference for Glaser. The initial simulation results were compared to assess the appropriateness of Glaser. Material measurements were undertaken and this data was used in the transient numerical simulations. A parametric study was undertaken using a selection of the initial transient numerical simulations stressed with parameters of 1–2 per cent driving rain at different window positions. The results of the initial transient numerical simulations indicate that most retrofit cases, except on cavity walls, are low risk. All cases assessed using Glaser pass the assessments. The parametric study indicated between 40–67 per cent were high risk depending on the wall types. All cases with mineral wool/mineral render were low risk, while most cases with acrylic render were high risk. The research described in this paper indicates that using the Glaser method for hygrothermal assessment of EWI cannot capture the extent of the risk when buildings are leaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buildings are responsible for around 45% of total energy consumption and one-third of CO2 emissions annually in Switzerland. Policymakers have argued that an increased rate of energy-saving retrofits in existing buildings will play a critical role in meeting the energy and climate policy goals. This article examines the determinants for the households' investment decisions to undertake energy-efficient retrofits and investigates the role of policy measures. We estimate random effects probit models using a rich data for 1663 owned single-family Swiss households for retrofits undertaken during 2010 to 2014. Results suggest that while the building vintage appears to be a relevant determinant; energy-related attitudes of decision makers and policy instruments are also likely to play an important role. In particular, we find a suggestive evidence of tax deduction policy in supporting households' decisions to undertake energy-saving retrofits as well as the intensity of renovation. Direct monetary policies such as tax deductions should be focused particularly upon poorly insulated old buildings and those that rely on non-renewable energy sources for heating purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study intended to detect the inherent deficiencies of prescription‐type empirical design procedures often adopted for nitrogen ‐removal activated sludge systems. Principles of process stoichiometry and kinetics were used to identify a series of hotspots that were likely to impair and disrupt system performance and efficiency. Available data, derived from an existing plant subject to a similar design approach, were utilized to numerically assess significant hotspots and to define a sustainable remedial action in compliance with applicable scientific principles. RESULTS: Critical appraisal of the implemented design exposed a large spectrum of deficiencies affecting system efficiency and performance, including nitrification efficiency, denitrification potential, anoxic volume and sludge age, internal recycling and nitrate removal. The major role of the inorganic suspended solids as a design parameter was also ignored. The remedial strategy adopted for retrofitting corrected all the observed discrepancies and it devised a sustainable approach of flipping around the existing reactors so that they could be operated as a series of carousel/fast recycle reactors, each including anoxic and aerobic volume fractions to provide full nitrification. CONCLUSION: The merit of the proposed remedial strategy was justified by offering two additional options of equally effective system operation with either reduced reactor volume or increased sewage flow. The study presented conclusive evidence to show why prescription‐type design should be avoided, providing numerical proof that this methodology is incompatible with stoichiometric and kinetic characteristics of sewage under local conditions. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of Nearly Zero-Energy Buildings (NZEB) renovation packages in Europe needs to be accelerated to meet the current decarbonization goals. To achieve this level of performance, building renovation strategies should shift towards solutions that incorporate a multitude of passive and active components, increasing the complexity and costs of the execution. Moreover, it requires the involvement of different stakeholders of the building supply-chain, resulting in additional difficulties in communication and coordination processes. To address this challenge, the present study aims at mapping the renovation process in digital platforms and addressing the respective bottlenecks. In terms of renovation process, several digital platforms were analysed to identify the type of information that the stakeholders require during the different renovation phases. By structuring the information along the renovation process phases, the different stakeholders can identify when the information can be provided and how the different type of information links to each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls are widely used as the lateral load‐resisting system due to their adequate ductility and great energy dissipation capacity. On the other hand, use of these walls can reduce the size of the beams and columns and also, decreases the lateral displacements. However, presence of the openings in the shear walls alters the behavior of the wall and therefore, the dimensions and position of the opening play a key role in the performance of this structural system. In this study, an RC shear wall with eccentric opening was verified using ABAQUS software. This model, which is called the reference model, a wall and a pier have been created according to aspect ratios given by ACI318‐14. This model was retrofitted with the steel plates arranged in various patterns and effect of each pattern on the system's performance was investigated and the best one was selected. The best steel plate arrangement increased the ultimate strength, maximum strength, cracking strength, and energy dissipation capacity by 127.3%, 13.42%, 22.53%, and 16.8%, respectively. To practically use this retrofit technique, three low, mid, and high‐rise buildings designed based on the old and new versions of the Iranian Code of Practice for Seismic Resistant Design of Buildings (Standard 2800) were upgraded with this technique and their performance was evaluated and performance of the substandard and standard buildings were compared with each other. The research results showed the ST52 steel plates do not considerably increase the maximum and cracking strength and could enhance the ultimate strength insignificantly. By retrofitting the edges of the openings by the diagonal steel plates and preventing spread of the cracks at the edges and corners, satisfactory results could be attained. Simultaneous use of the vertical and horizontal plates is an effective solution to increase the flexural and shear capacity of the structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pace of thermal retrofit of buildings in Germany remains slow. A Worst-First approach, prioritizing the retrofit of inefficient buildings, would address energy- and social policy objectives and deliver economic and climate benefits. Data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) show how such an approach would protect especially low-income households often living in very inefficient buildings from heating costs risks. This group comprises 28 percent of all tenants and 13 percent of all homeowners. Yet, uncertainty about the cost-benefit of retrofitting and other priorities of homeowners mean that not enough buildings are retrofitted. As a result, the saving potentials, especially from very inefficient buildings, are not being realized. This would, however, be necessary to reduce heating cost risks and energy import dependency, and to meet climate targets. Better alignment of financing and subsidy instruments with the ownership structure, the further development of building standards to include minimum energy performance standards, and reform of tenancy law could improve the situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure of concrete to elevated temperature affects its mechanical and physical properties. One of the important reasons for the use of fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials is because of its superior mechanical properties. These mechanical properties include impact resistance, strength, stiffness, flexibility, and also it is enhanced ability to carry loads. The high strength–weight ratio, and corrosion resistance of FRPs made them suitable for repair. For strengthening and retrofitting of concrete structures confinement with FRP has received considerable attention in recent years. Geopolymer concrete (GPC) can be expressed as “concrete without cement.” GPC is environmentally friendly and an inventive way to replace the conservative concrete which contributes 7%–8% of total CO2 production in the world. “The concrete which entails of the source materials and the alkaline solution.” The composite material made of fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) has recently gained attention as a potential repair method for concrete structures that have been damaged. This study investigates the performance of glass and basalt fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP and BFRP) laminates as a retrofit solution for fire‐damaged GPC specimens. The specimens were subjected to temperatures of 200°C, 400°C, 600°C, and 800°C for a period of 1, 2, and 3 h, followed by retrofitting with FRP laminates. The results indicated an increase in the ultimate load‐carrying capacity of GPC specimens when subjected to 200°C for 1 h, beyond which it decreased. However, a fall in ultimate load capacity was observed for higher ranges of temperature and duration of the fire. In this project, geopolymer specimens that had been damaged by fire are wrapped with GFRP and BFRP laminates to study the effect of confinement on the strength of GPC specimens. The fiber laminate used was bi‐directional glass and bi‐directional basalt. Based on the analysis of test data, there was the conclusion that the fire‐damaged GPC was strengthened when retrofitted with GFRP and BFRP laminates was attainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of a novel capacity-design based retrofit for improving both the local and global behaviour of existing reinforced concrete buildings using fibre-reinforced polymers. The approach was previously tested on beam-column joints and is here extended to the building level. A new fibre-element model for the global retrofit is proposed and validated against full-scale experiments. Non-linear push-over analyses confirm the adequacy of the retrofit and fragility analyses are used to compare it to a simpler local retrofit. Finally, cost-benefit analyses for three levels of seismicity highlight the cost-effectiveness of the global retrofit for moderate to high seismicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an era flooded with a multitude of studies investigating the performance of concrete structures retrofitted using fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) materials, this review addresses the critical need for a comprehensive overview of the retrofitting of concrete members using near‐surface mounted (NSM)‐FRP composites, aiming to save time and effort while providing engineers and research community with valuable resources relevant to the field. This review focuses on the key factors influencing both the flexural and shear retrofitting processes of reinforced concrete (RC) beams, such as the percentage, type, size and geometry of NSM‐FRP reinforcement, as well as groove design, groove‐filling materials and beam depth. Moreover, the paper explores the failure modes associated with each retrofitting type, for example, debonding failures, shear/flexural failure and rupture of steel or NSM‐FRP reinforcement, to name a few. The review also delves into the bond behavior of NSM‐FRP‐bonded joints, examining factors, such as the bonded length, surface texture of NSM‐FRP reinforcement and type of bonding agent, which would affect the bond behavior and strength of the joints. The failure mechanisms associated with the bonded joints, such as interfacial bond failure, FRP rupture and splitting of the adhesive cover, are also highlighted. Finally, this compilation aims to guide engineers and researchers by offering a critical and comprehensive database for optimal designs, further development and suggesting future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Romania, there are numerous Orthodox churches, many of which are historical monuments of great cultural value that have suffered multiple degradations over time due to various natural or man-made reasons. In a context that is currently increasingly focused on environmental protection, we aim to analyse the carbon footprint of several different consolidation proposals to an Orthodox church with structural deteriorations (and more) and the equivalent impact if a similar building were erected with new materials. The research is proposed to be a stepping stone for determining the sustainability of interventions for orthodox churches, as the existing literature is scarce when it comes to the emissions of these churches and there is no norm to prevent unsustainable interventions. The Orthodox Church "Sfintii Voievozi", the subject of the analysis, is in the city of Tg. Jiu, Gorj County. The construction was documented to be between 1748 and 1764 and is a historical monument listed in the LMI GJ-II-m-A-09189 registry. The architectural solutions for the church and the structural elements that comprise the load-bearing system are presented. A detailed investigation was conducted to determine structural and non-structural degradations, specifying the main causes that have produced them. With regard to consolidation solutions, two options are presented and compared in this paper: Alternative I—minimal intervention and Alternative II—maximal intervention, both of which are reversible. The carbon footprint calculation was carried out for both options, determining the associated material consumption, and compared to the carbon footprint for the case of a new construction. In conclusion, the consolidation methods with a minimal degree of intervention is recommended as the "most environmentally friendly", considering carbon emissions when comparing the options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sociology of personal life (SPL) has been largely untouched by sociology's ontological turn. A few scholars have attempted to retrofit SPL and new-materialist ideas, but these limited attempts have overlooked the potential for SPL to furnish its own definitive ontological contributions in dialogue with the wider turn. In response, I offer an SPL-centred ontology: the 'connective ontology' of facet methodology. Introduced in 2011, facet methodology was originally supported by 'connective ontology', briefly outlined in a preliminary text, but as facet methodology has gained popularity, connective ontology has not been explicitly discussed. I argue that, while never mentioned outright, Jennifer Mason's 2018 Affinities is about connective ontology and therefore offers an extensive, albeit tantalisingly implicit, ontological thesis, which I attempt to develop. In my interpretation, the world is made up of fluctuating layerings of vitally animated connection units. This connective ontology resonates with contemporary new-materialist sensibilities, but is from and of SPL. It also speaks to broader theoretical traditions, offering provocations for ontologically-minded, live, post-humanist, vitalist and biosocial sociologies, especially regarding longstanding critiques of apoliticism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the seismic retrofit of substandard reinforced concrete (RC) columns through external jacketing of potential plastic hinge zones using sprayed glass fiber-reinforced mortar and basalt textile reinforcement. An innovative spraying method was used to apply the matrix material to the concrete surface. A total number of eight full-scale columns (four reference, four retrofitted) were tested under constant high axial load to capacity ratio and reversed cyclic lateral loading. Columns were constructed using low-strength concrete and transverse reinforcement with various spacing and inadequate hook detailing to mimic the columns in substandard structures. Test results are evaluated in terms of lateral load-drift ratio relationships, displacement ductility, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation, and residual displacements. Evaluation of the test results showed that the proposed technique is effective for seismic retrofit of substandard RC columns, particularly in terms of enhancement of displacement ductility, energy dissipation capacities, and reduction of residual displacements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents the application of timber-based retrofitting techniques to a case-study stone masonry church featuring a wooden roof from 18th century. From the static point of view, the original roof structure presented a number of undersized structural elements, and its members were poorly or not connected among each other and to the masonry, making the church vulnerable to seismic loads as well. Thus, the roof was retrofitted with wood-based techniques, including an overlay of plywood panels, against seismic actions. These affordable, rapid, easily realizable interventions enabled both the conservation and seismic retrofitting of the roof, providing an adequate load-carrying capacity for static loads, and an effective diaphragm action against seismic loads. The conducted numerical analyses showed that the realized interventions greatly improve the seismic behaviour of the building. Besides, when the additional energy dissipation provided by the plywood panels overlay is taken into account in the numerical model, the church would even potentially be able to fully withstand the expected seismic action of the site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The push for environmental sustainability has accelerated the acceptance of electric vehicles, as well as the exploration of electrified Non-Road Mobile Machinery. This study emphasizes the challenges of electrifying off-highway machinery, which include the many machinery layouts and the presence of Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises in the market. Recognizing the barriers faced by these companies, this paper shows how modeling and simulation can be effective tools for system integration and control optimization, even when lacking extensive expertise in the topic. However, it emphasizes the need for user-friendly modeling tools and methods adaptable to the operational needs of Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises. This study presents a case study of a retrofitted battery-electric hydraulic material handler. The machinery is simulated using Simscape, and the accuracy of the model is confirmed through experimental validation. By simulating a rational duty cycle, this study proposes two solutions for performance enhancement while maintaining the integrity of the hydraulic system. These solutions offer a balanced compromise between energy consumption and productivity and a novel control algorithm to minimize energy consumption. Most importantly, the two proposed solutions can be easily switched by the operator, which can decide to favor productivity over energy saving based on driving needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the construction industry, re‐use of components has the potential to play a crucial role in reducing CO2 emissions. The direct re‐use of components is particularly suitable for steel structures because they have a high degree of prefabrication and can be dismantled with a minimum of deterioration. However, for structural applications of re‐used components, there is the need for establishing concepts and rules for evaluation, reclaiming, stockage, placing on the market, structural design and installation. Safety assessment and design of re‐used steel components will be essential for creating a system that fosters the re‐use in the construction market. Against this background, and in order to promote the re‐use of steel components as one of the key measures to reduce carbon emissions of the European construction sector and its contribution to achieving the climate goals, the article outlines key aspects for confidently designing re‐used steel components according to Eurocode 3. This includes defining the scope and implementing a technical action plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing urgency of the carbon emission reduction task, the generation expansion planning process needs to add carbon emission risk constraints, in addition to considering the level of power adequacy. However, methods for quantifying and assessing carbon emissions and operational risks are lacking. It results in excessive carbon emissions and frequent load-shedding on some days, although meeting annual carbon emission reduction targets. First, in response to the above problems, carbon emission and power balance risk assessment indicators and assessment methods, were proposed to quantify electricity abundance and carbon emission risk level of power planning scenarios, considering power supply regulation and renewable energy fluctuation characteristics. Secondly, building on traditional two-tier models for low-carbon power planning, including investment decisions and operational simulations, considering carbon emissions and power balance risks in lower-tier operational simulations, a two-tier rolling model for thermal power retrofit and generation expansion planning was established. The model includes an investment tier and operation assessment tier and makes year-by-year decisions on the number of thermal power units to be retrofitted and the type and capacity of units to be commissioned. Finally, the rationality and validity of the model were verified through an example analysis, a small-scale power supply system in a certain region is taken as an example. The model can significantly reduce the number of days of carbon emissions risk and ensure that the power balance risk is within the safe limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Over the years, the significance of retrofitting has gained much attention with the unveiling of its different applications, such as energy retrofit and deep retrofit, to enhance the climate-resilience of buildings. However, no single study comprehensively assesses the climate-resilience of retrofitting. The purpose of this study is to address this gap via a systematic literature review. Design/methodology/approach: Quality journal studies were selected using the PRISMA method and analysed manually and using scientometrics. Three dimensions of climate-resilience, such as robustness, withstanding and recovery, were used to evaluate the contribution of retrofit measures for achieving climate-resilient houses across four climate zones: tropical, arid, temperate and cold. Findings: Most passive measures can enhance the robustness of residential buildings but cannot verify for withstanding against immediate shocks and timely recovery. However, some passive measures, such as night-time ventilation, show excellent performance over all four climate zones. Active measures such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, can ensure climate-resilience in all three dimensions in the short-term but contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating the long-term climate. Integrating renewable energy sources can defeat this issue. Thus, all three retrofit strategies should appropriately be adopted together to achieve climate-resilient houses. Research limitations/implications: Since the research is limited to secondary data, retrofit measures recommended in this research should be further investigated before application. Originality/value: This review contributes to the knowledge domain of retrofitting by assessing the contribution of different retrofit measures to climate-resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the steel strongback braced (SB) system to seismically strengthen and retrofit reinforced concrete moment frames (RCMFs), this research aims to enhance the effectiveness of RCMFs. In this study, RCMFs of 5-, 10-, and 15-stories were designed according to the first and fourth editions of the Iran Earthquake Standard 2800. The RCMFs designed for the first edition are strengthened and reinforced using the strongback braced system. The studied structures were analyzed under incremental static loading and time history analysis. The findings indicate that the yield force and maximum base shear of structures designed using the fourth edition have increased by a range of 1.28–1.42 compared with those designed with the first edition. This underscores the imperative to enhance the structural integrity of buildings constructed according to the first edition. Meanwhile, the results of retrofitted structures with strongback braces show the same or better performance than newly designed structures. This indicates that this retrofitting system has a favorable effect on uniform drift control. A reduction of 33%–44% in story drift was observed when the SB system is added to the first edition's structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

States may allow vehicles to exceed US federal weight limits off the interstate system, but state-specific load rating vehicles are developed to ensure that bridges can carry such vehicles safely. However, if the load effects of state rating vehicles are not similar to those of the vehicles operating in the state, the load factors required for the safety of some bridges may be too large for others, resulting in unnecessary remediation that may include retrofitting, posting, or even closure. In this study, a quantifiable measure of load rating efficiency is used to analyze the load effects of rating and operating vehicles on a wide range of bridges. Using this measure of efficiency, a novel heuristic approach is used to identify nearly optimal rating loads that envelope the load effects of state operating vehicles, potentially reducing the need for remedial action. To illustrate, the approach is used to develop new rating loads proposed for the state of Indiana. This approach may be combined with further analyses to assess the potential economic impact of new rating vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a case study on the use of 3D concrete printing (3DCP) to qualify rocky pontoons with spaces for recreational use—namely sitting areas, circulation trails and fishing spots—and biodiversity protection—providing habitat and refuge for native marine species—with a focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with 3DCP prefabrication for such a complex topographical context. We first discuss the benefits and disadvantages of 3DCP over traditional methods for retrofitting strategies with the support of state-of-the-art literature review. We then present a methodology and an experimental case study, organized in three stages: (1) a photogrammetric survey and digital reconstruction of the site´s rocky landscape, (2) the creation of a tool to generate and optimize custom-fit slabs based on their location on site, intended use and role in the protection of the natural ecosystem, and (3) the robotic fabrication of these slabs through 3DCP. Finally, we present our key findings, revealing that 3DCP offers a viable and more efficient alternative for appropriating and revitalizing sites with a disorderly and highly complex topography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The previous research introduced an innovative retrofitting technique for reinforced concrete beams using modularized steel plates. This technique enhances structural performance, offering a lightweight solution compared to conventional retrofitting methods using steel plates, and accommodates construction errors. However, a challenge arises due to the lack of integrity between unit steel plates. To address this, this study proposes a novel method of connecting each steel plate with bolts. The experimental results show that retrofitted beams achieved a maximum load of 311.9 kN, roughly 1.6 times that of non-retrofitted specimens, with the ductility of retrofitted beams being 3.3 times that of the non-retrofitted beams. Additionally, there was a 25% increase in load capacity for beams retrofitted with interconnected steel plates compared to those without connections between unit steel plates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing the seismic vulnerability of infrastructures is critical, especially for those built before the introduction of the current seismic regulations. One of the primary challenges lies in retrofitting these buildings without interrupting their functionality. In this context, the use of exoskeletons for seismic retrofitting represents an effective solution. This approach increases the seismic resistance and ensures the continuous operation of the building during retrofitting. This advantage is especially crucial for critical infrastructures, such as airports. Nevertheless, traditional seismic assessment methods based on pushover analyses might not accurately predict the seismic capacity of complex infrastructures dominated by local vibration modes. To bridge this gap, the study proposes refining the multimodal pushover analysis tailored for seismic vulnerability assessments of large infrastructures with exoskeletons characterized by low modal participation ratios. The Foggia Airport case study exemplifies these points and highlights the practical applications of the discussed advancements. The authors compared two force distributions for push-over analysis, addressing the fine-tuning of exoskeletons to maximize their seismic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, seismic bi–axially loaded RC beam–column joints are investigated. An experimental campaign on shear–critical corner joints is presented, including two as–built specimens and one retrofitted using fully–fastened–haunches (FFHR). Bi–axial tests adopted hexagonal protocol which is essentially to apply load in one direction double with respect to the other. Results obtained for as–built condition were included in a database of corner joints tested bi–axially and discussed in the light of the impact of bi–axial load on joint's shear strength. Further, non–linear finite elements were employed to thoroughly evaluate the bi–axial response. Haunch retrofit was capable to reduce both shear stresses and distortion at joint. Experimentally–derived internal forces were used to validate three–dimensional Strut-and-Tie model of the joints. Such design tool is recommended for practice cases adopting FFHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retrofitting measures for crane runway girders for service life extension For moving goods overhead most industrial companies use bridge cranes which are mostly moved on crane runways. Due to the movement of the bridge crane and the hoisting of loads the crane runway girder and its supporting structures are subjected to cyclic loading. Therefore a verification against fatigue is needed. After expiry of the calculated service life individual and costly concepts are needed for a safe continued use of the crane runway. In the course of the research project NE‐Industriebau the University of Applied Sciences Munich investigated multiple retrofitting and strengthening methods for pre‐damaged existing crane runway girders to effectively and safely extend the service life. Therefore fatigue tests on constructional details that are typical for crane runways were performed with different stages of pre‐damage and strengthening methods i. e. hammer peening, grinding and steel cover plate reinforcements with different application techniques. In this article common measures for a fatigue‐proof strengthening of existing crane runway girders and the previous results of the research project are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on evaluating the performance of an aged heritage building made of unreinforced brick masonry under seismic conditions, both with and without retrofitting. To achieve this, an experimental examination was conducted using a scaled-down model of a single-story unreinforced building, constructed on a shake table at a 1:4 geometric scale. The responses of this model were recorded at the roof level, primarily in the form of displacements. Subsequently, the same scaled model was replicated in SAP2000 finite element (FE) software. The results obtained from the FE model closely matched the experimental findings, validating the computational approach. Following this validation, an existing masonry heritage school building situated at Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, was chosen for further investigation. In this subsequent analysis, natural frequencies and mode shapes were computed through model analysis, revealing closely spaced natural frequencies. To assess the seismic performance of the heritage building, a nonlinear time history analysis was conducted using actual ground motion data from the Koyna earthquake. The maximum compressive and tensile stresses generated numerically under both gravity and earthquake loading conditions were compared with permissible stresses in accordance with Indian masonry standard codes. The finite element model demonstrated that the building remains structurally sound under gravity loading, although some vulnerable areas were identified under earthquake loading conditions. To mitigate the stresses in these vulnerable zones, various retrofitting techniques were explored. Notably, the application of steel flats on floors and walls, along with GFRP sheeting, proved to be an effective solution, reducing stress levels by up to 90%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy efficiency of existing buildings is a crucial factor in addressing energy consumption challenges in European countries, accounting for nearly 40% of the total energy usage. One such country is Cyprus, which faces significant challenges in transforming its existing building stock into energy-efficient and sustainable structures. To face this situation, extensive focus has been made by the government on the energy-efficient retrofit of non-residential public buildings erected before 2010, which lack any energy efficiency measures. This study examines the case of the Pano Polemidia Cultural Hall (PPCH), which represents the building stock of that period. Through the simulation of two scenarios, before and after the adoption of retrofit measures, the existing energy performance is initially evaluated and then the adoption of sustainable solutions, which improve substantially the energy efficiency and can be easily adopted from the relevant authorities, is explored. These retrofit measures include installation of HVAC system, covering of the shell of the building with external thermal insulation, lighting replacement with LED devices, installation of PV system and solar panels, and replacement of the external openings with aluminum windows. The results derived show that the energy consumption of the building was reduced from 468 to 218 kWh/m2·yr, with renewable energy sources (RESs) contributing 177 kWh/m2·yr, the CO2 emissions were reduced from 136.73 to 11.5 kg/m2·yr, while the reduction in energy consumption per sector ranged from 25% in lighting to 83% in hot water. Therefore, it is evident that a comprehensive retrofitting plan can transform the PPCH into a near-zero energy consumption building that also provides value to the local community and can act as a successful example for any other non-residential buildings with similar characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have suggested that engineered cementitious composite (ECC) could be a highly efficient and cost‐effective material for enhancing the flexural strength of reinforced concrete (RC) beams. Recently two effective retrofitting configurations using steel and polyvinyl‐alcohol hybrid fiber reinforced engineered cementitious composite (SPH‐ECC) were proposed (Qasim et al., Eng Struct, 2023, 284, p. 115992) and their high effectiveness for enhancing the flexural strength of RC beam was verified experimentally. However, to examine the performance of these strengthening configurations thoroughly by conducting experiments to cover practical ranges of design parameters is deemed to be too expensive and time consuming. In this study, a numerical parametric study of SPH‐ECC strengthened RC beams was conducted by employing a validated finite element (FE) modeling procedure developed by the authors. The effects of four key design parameters including the compressive strength of concrete and SPH‐ECC, the thickness of SPH‐ECC strengthening layer and the area of reinforcement bars embedded in SPH‐ECC layers on the flexural performance of the strengthened beams were studied. Parametric study results showed that the area of reinforcement bars in the SPH‐ECC layers could significantly affect the flexural strength of the strengthened beams. Furthermore, in order to allow engineers to predict the flexural strength of the strengthened beams quickly, two simple but accurate analytical models were also developed for the two strengthening configurations considered. Their reliability and accuracy were then verified and confirmed by comparing with the parametric study results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]